Spiritual growth is fundamental to the Christian faith and discipleship. It is not about perfection – but it is about how you progress to become the best version that God wants you to be. Spiritual maturity is not only a solo journey but also a communal and divine process guided by the Holy Spirit grounded in the rich tradition of Scriptures and Christian doctrine. We will explore how to grow spiritually drawing knowledge from the scripture, the teachings of the Church, and the transformative power of God’s grace.
I. The Call to Holiness
God calls every believer to Holiness, “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written; ‘Be holy because I am holy.'” (1 Peter 1:15-16.) The call to holiness is not a burden but rather a gift, a participation in the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). Spirituality growth begins with the recognition of the call to holiness, responding with faith, humility, and obedience. Holiness is not about self-righteousness but about being conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). it is a process of sanctification, empowered by the Holy Spirit, who works within us to make us more like Christ. White (2009) wrote that “Paul would call upon churches in general, to cleanse themselves from “all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” To answer this call, every Christian is urged to begin each with a prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts, words, and actions. Reflecting on the scriptures to align ourselves with God’s will.
II. The Role of Scripture in Spiritual Growth
The Bible is considered the source of truth, it is the living word of God, a lamp to our feet, and a light unto our path (Psalm 119:105). Spiritual growth begins with an in-depth study of God’s word, allowing the truth to shape our minds. The word of God contains transformative power. In John 15:3 “You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.” Through the scripture, we encounter the living Christ and are renewed (Ephesians 3:16-19). It is important to develop a habit of reading and meditating on scriptures, tools such as Bible Reading Plan, Bible Study Guides, Morning Devotional, and other tools that can help create a habit of spending time with the Lord.
III. The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
Spiritual growth is not our achievement, it is the work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the agent of sanctification, guiding us into truth, empowering us for His service, and transforming behavior into Christ’s likeness. (Romans 8:13-14).
The Holy Spirit works in and out. He convicts us of sin (John 16:8), leads us into righteousness (Romans 8:14), and equips us for ministry (Acts 1:8). Without the guidance of the Holy Spirit, our efforts to grow spiritually are futile. However, when we rely on the Holy Spirit, spiritual growth is no longer about our efforts; it becomes an act of surrender, allowing His will to work in and through us. To access the ministry of the Holy Spirit we have to pray asking for the Holy Spirit to take full control over us and experience moments of stillness to listen to His voice and allow Him to work in our lives.
IV. The Call to Repentance and Forgiveness
Spiritual growth involves a continual process of repentance – turning away from sin and turning toward God. Repentance involves confession, forgiveness, and renewal of relationship with God then ourselves, and then to others. Repentance is the heart of the gospel. Peter declares, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” (Acts 3:10). By regularly examining our hearts and recognizing our nothingness we will identify our sins and confessing them to God to receive His forgiveness and extend forgiveness to others.
V. The Practice of Prayer and Worship
Prayer and Worship are not optional in the Christian life. I have an uncle who is now a retired Pastor but his spiritual life has amazed me. I noticed him reading his bible right after he woke up before our family worship. I was wondering if he was preparing a sermon, so I asked him about it, and he replied, that this type of studying is for personal consumption, it is how God communicated with me. I still couldn’t master it, because sometimes I get swayed with mobile phones and current events, but his practices did influence me. I am still struggling to have my silent time with God and keep on praying for strength. Prayer is a lifeline of Christian life. In Philippians 4:6-7, we are told, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God.”
In Adventist practice, worship is very essential to the family. I grew up having this family culture of worship. We have family worship in the morning before we go for our necessities and have family worship in the evening, usually right after dinner. Corporate worship is also essential, in an Adventist setting we set to have corporate worship on Wednesday night (Care Group Worship or Church Worship) and Friday night (To welcome the Sabbath) and of course on Saturday in which we believe that it is a Holy Day. Other religions or families may differ in worship culture but worship is our response to God’s grace (Psalm 95:6).
As Christians, we need to cultivate a prayer life that includes adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication (ACTS). Include personal meditation and worship, family worship, and corporate worship.
